Earth Systems and Water Cycle

These flashcards cover key concepts related to Earth's systems, including atmosphere, biosphere, geosphere, hydrosphere, and concepts related to water.

Atmosphere

The Earth system that is composed of all the gases that surround Earth.

Biosphere

The Earth system that is composed of all the living things on Earth.

Geosphere

The Earth system that contains all the rocky layers of the Earth.

Hydrosphere

The Earth system that contains all of the water on Earth.

Fresh water

Naturally occurring water that contains little or no salt.

Ground water

Water stored in the spaces between materials beneath Earth's surface.

Reservoir

A place where water collects.

Salt water

Water that contains dissolved salt.

Water cycle

The continuous movement of water on, above, and below the surface of the Earth.

Geologic

Relating to the Earth's rocky inner and outer features.

Rock cycle

The process through which rock changes from igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic.

Air pressure

The weight of air pressing on all things.

Air mass

A body of air with uniform temperature and humidity.